Don’t be a teacher, be a guide

I came across this quote from Bruce Lee as I was actually looking for something else:

A teacher is never a giver of truth; he is a guide, a pointer to the truth that each student must find for himself. – Bruce Lee

In those few words he takes away what I have frequently seen as the number one reason why so many of our Brothers aren’t willing to step up and be a teacher or a mentor. The fear that they have to know everything about a topic before they can speak to it.

I will be the first to admit that I don’t know anything about a number of things, both inside and outside or our Fraternity, but that doesn’t stop me from at least trying to help others head in the right direction. I might suggest a book I’ve seen, a website that was mentioned to me, or even that they should consult another. It is my hope that when I give someone a nudge in a direction that they will pick up the ball and run with it and hopefully, come back and share what they’ve learned (if I don’t tag along to find out for myself).

To be a good teacher or mentor means you are guiding the Brother towards what he needs, the truth that he seeks, not what you feel it should be. Each of us has our own path to tread and we will need the help of others to find our way. Some will be our teachers, others will be our companions, and some will be our students. We must be willing to adapt and help others along their way.

So, the next time someone asks you a question about the symbols of the Fraternity, or questions something about its history, help them find the answer, even if you don’t know it. You’ll be a guide to that Brother and maybe, just maybe, start a lifelong journey together.